I think--of course I do not know--but I think that you are a serious man.

But then, I may be mistaken." "Well, it is human to err, Sor Marzio.

But then, I am no longer of that age--what shall I say?
Everybody knows I am serious.

Do I lead the life of the cafe?
Do I wear out my shoes in Piazza Colonna?
Capers! I am a serious man." "Yes," answered Marzio, though with some hesitation, as though he were prepared to argue even this point with the sallow-faced lawyer.

He struck a match on the gaudy little paper box he carried and began to smoke thoughtfully.